Christopher A. Matta

The meeting included reports on toll evasion collection efforts and the performance metrics of the toll collection system. The Commission approved the rejection of a sole bid for an overhead signage project and awarded contracts for bridge repainting services, construction administration, and inspection. Additionally, the Commission approved a contract modification for renovation design services at the administration building and selected a firm to provide cell tower license brokerage and property management services. Various personnel updates, including promotions, new hires, and recognitions of professional truck drivers, were also discussed.

The Commission discussed several project-related resolutions, including a change order for bridge repairs on Page Road and the selection of contractors for bridge repainting, bridge deck replacement, and pavement marking projects. Further discussion covered participation in the Ohio Department of Transportation's cooperative purchasing program for winter road salt and the procurement of a five-year Cisco enterprise agreement. Additionally, a detailed report and engineering study were provided regarding the long-term renovation and facility needs of the Commission's administration complex. The Commission also reviewed revenue reports, issues concerning unpaid tolls and license plate obscuration by commercial vehicles, and activity statistics from the Ohio State Highway Patrol.

The commission meeting included updates on operational performance, winter weather response efforts, and diversity initiatives. Multiple resolutions were approved for construction and engineering projects, including bridge deck rehabilitation, pavement resurfacing, and slope repairs. Additionally, the commission authorized the purchase of new fleet vehicles, message boards, and toll technology equipment, and approved various contract modifications for ongoing infrastructure services.

The Commission meeting will address numerous contract approvals and modifications. Key items include the selection of construction companies for project work, the appointment of engineering firms for asset management and various infrastructure projects, and herbicide application services. The agenda also covers the purchase of asphalt recyclers, a significant contract change order regarding toll technology, modifications to contracts for traffic forecasting and planning, and the authorization of temporary staffing solutions. Additionally, the meeting will include reports from various internal departments and the Ohio State Highway Patrol.

The meeting addressed several key administrative and financial matters. The Executive Director reported on 2025 initiatives focused on safety, efficiency, and employee environment, including countering fraud attempts and highlighting the "America 250-Ohio" kick-off. The Commission recognized new employees and retirees, and also acknowledged the Ohio State Highway Patrol for locating missing juveniles after an incident on December 25, 2025. Key resolutions involved approving a modification to the contract with Crawford, Murphy & Tilly Inc. for additional Phase II engineering services for bridge projects, authorizing the selection of Firelands Supply Company for guardrail terminal parts, awarding contracts for Disabled Vehicle Services across seven zones, and approving an estimated $1,000,000.00 for United States Postal Service postage costs for Calendar Year 2026, which supports the new E-ZPass transponder replacement program. Discussions also occurred regarding unbilled trips, collection rates, and the toll rate structure.